Established in August 1925 Campbells Bay School initially welcomed just 16 children. Its first classroom a humble structure still stands today. It’s now integrated into a larger building a testament to the school’s growth. Campbells Bay School is a contributing primary school educating students from Year 1 to Year 6. It’s a co-educational state school located at 77 Aberdeen Road in North Shore City. The principal is Bevan Verryt.
The school boasts a unique feature its Community Forest. This 1.5 to 2 hectare area was once overrun with weeds and rubbish. However starting in the mid-1990s a remarkable transformation began. The school’s Board of Trustees invested $500 in a regeneration project. Volunteers parents and community groups including Milford Rotary and organizations like Forest and Bird dedicated countless hours to clearing weeds planting native trees and building boardwalks. The Lotteries Board provided significant funding. The result is a thriving native forest teeming with native birds and insects. This forest serves as a valuable outdoor classroom for students. It’s a living testament to community spirit and environmental stewardship.
Campbells Bay School’s 75th jubilee in 2000 marked a milestone. A special magazine documented the school’s history. The school is planning a centennial celebration in 2025. This event promises to be a grand occasion celebrating a century of education and community involvement. The school’s commitment to Maori culture is also evident. Campbells Bay School actively integrates te reo Maori and tikanga Maori into its curriculum fostering a culturally responsive learning environment. The school aims to develop an expanded understanding of maori culture.
Campbells Bay School is more than just a place of learning. It’s a hub of community activity. The school’s success is a testament to its dedicated staff the supportive community and the resilient spirit of its students. A visit to Campbells Bay School reveals a place where history tradition and community work harmoniously. The school’s rich history and ongoing commitment to excellence make it a truly special institution. It deserves to be visited and explored further.